DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke has challenged MCA president Wee Ka Siong to a public debate to compare their respective track records as transport ministers, amid a separate dispute over a proposed debate between two Melaka election candidates.
Loke, who currently holds the Transport Ministry portfolio, dismissed Wee's call for a debate between DAP's Bandar Hilir incumbent Leng Chau Yen and her MCA challenger Jasmine Lok, accusing the MCA chief of unfairly targeting Leng over her speech impediment.
He said Leng's condition had never prevented her from serving the Bandar Hilir constituency effectively over the past five years.
"She has proven herself, she has been there for one term. So, why is Wee only singling her out? Why not other constituencies? He is being unfair and was trying to be a bully," he told reporters after officiating the Federal Territories DAP convention today.
Instead, Loke said he was willing to debate Wee on their respective performances and achievements while leading the Transport Ministry.
"If he wishes for a debate, I can debate him anytime on transport issues," he said.
In his convention speech earlier, Loke also challenged MCA to take on DAP in all constituencies if it was serious about contesting the party's political position.
"I can also debate with (Wee). What did you do as transport minister compared with what I have done as transport minister? We are not afraid to be challenged," he said.
Loke first served as Transport Minister from 2018 to 2020 before the collapse of the Pakatan Harapan-led federal government.
Wee subsequently held the portfolio until late 2022, when Loke was reappointed following the formation of the unity government. - November 1, 2026